Concert benefit in Barrington for Lutheran services
On Wednesday, Oct. 5, Mary Beth Carlson — composer, pianist, speaker and recording artist — will perform in a “Concert of Caring” at the Lutheran Church of the Atonement in Barrington to benefit Lutheran Social Services of Illinois programs in the community, which includes services for children, families, seniors and people with disabilities. The church is at 909 E. Main Street, in Barrington, and the concert starts at 7 p.m. The concert is one of five being held around the state in early October (for other locations, see www.LSSI.org).
Carlson's concerts, which are intimate and heartwarming, feature a wide selection of music to please listeners of all ages. She is a compelling storyteller as well. Throughout her music, Carlson creates a consistent flow with an elegant, beautifully distinctive style that has become a best-selling “signature sound” throughout the country.
“We are very excited to be able to showcase Mary Beth's incredible talent and also her moving story of her daughter's autism and cerebral palsy,” says the Rev. Denver Bitner, D.Min., LSSI president. “She's able to not only deliver a great concert, but her personal story reflects a deep commitment to what that LSSI is all about — caring for people in need.”
The agency is working toward developing supportive housing for high-functioning adults with autism.
“Music is a beautiful, treasured gift from God,” Carlson said. “I know I'm on the right path when I hear from appreciative listeners who tell me moving stories of how my music has been personally meaningful in their lives.”
Carlson is also a composer, and much of her original music has been created in honor of her daughter Jody, who was born with cerebral palsy and autism. She has written and performed music specifically for the International Special Olympics, Arc, Children's Cancer Research Fund and the Alzheimer's Association.
Carlson's piano orchestral arrangements have been featured on several recordings with internationally recognized artists including, among others: Sandi Patty, Darlene Zschech, Sheila Walsh, Kelly Willard, Jim Brickman, The Blenders, Steve Hall and J.D. Steele, who performed at last year's Concerts of Caring. Most recently, Carlson was interviewed on KTIS radio in St. Paul, Minn., in a five-day series about her journey of faith for the Her Journey radio program.
Tickets cost $15 per person. For information or to purchase tickets, contact Lutheran Church of the Atonement in Barrington at (847) 381-0243.
For information on Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, visit www.LSSI.org or LSSI's Facebook page.